New Delhi, Aug 16 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday received a phone call from Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, and both leaders exchanged views on the prevailing situation.

According to Ministry of External Affairs statement, the Prime Minister reaffirmed India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh.

He also emphasised India's commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh through various development initiatives. Moreover, Modi underlined the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities in Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Yunus assured that the Interim Government would prioritise protection, safety and security of Hindus and all minority groups in Bangladesh.

The two leaders also discussed ways to take the bilateral relationship forward in line with the respective national priorities.

Later, addressing a weekly press conference here, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while replying to questions on Bangladesh including the statement of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, said that an Interim Government has been formed in Bangladesh.

He said, “We are talking to them in the interest of both countries, we want the journey of peace, security and development should continue in Bangladesh. As far as the situation of minorities is concerned, we are constantly monitoring it. India's High Commissioner in Dhaka has met the Foreign Affairs Advisor in the interim government and discussed bilateral issues as well as the security of Hindus”.

Jaiswal further said that India believes that normalcy should be restored in Bangladesh soon and Hindus and other minorities should be safe. Adding that, “We also believe that it is the responsibility of every government to protect its citizens”.

In response to another question, the Spokesperson said that Indian visa granting services are currently running in a limited state in Bangladesh. Full-fledged visa services at the Indian High Commission will resume ones normalcy is restored there.

In response to a question, the Spokesperson indirectly admitted that there has been communication between India and America regarding the incidents in Bangladesh.

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